As a person who loves literature, I see Ramayanam as the story of humans where Rakshasas, monkeys and birds also come in as characters of equal importance. Everything about Ramayanam is of the highest quality, even the minutest things appearing in it have high ideals. It also tells us that not just humans, but the animal and bird world also has emotions, social values and thoughts. It was Bali who taught Rama about the adharma that he had done by killing him from behind.
I am fascinated by the universal thought process and metaphorical depiction of human world in Ramayanam. Remember that Jatayu, a bird, was enraged by the wrongdoing of Ravana, who abducts Sita, and fought with him till death to prevent Ravana from doing it. The story tells us that not only humans like Rama or Lakshmana, but Bali and Jadayu could think about the rights and wrongs.
Ramayanam tells us that we all are one family-- humans, animals and birds. We work together, face adversities together and fight injustices together. I am also fascinated by Hanuman, arguably the most selfless character in Ramayanam. Hanuman embodies the highest form of love and companionship and displays his unconditional friendship with Rama. The words Rama speaks to Hanuman when he returns after meeting Sita in Lanka are brilliant. Rama says, “Hanuman, you have done everything that a friend could do. Now my prayer is that I may not get an opportunity to return this favour.”
Malayalam critic Kuttikrishna Marar had once said that Jatayu and Sampati were the epitome of kindness and gratitude and had higher values than even Rama. Ramayana is also a book about sacrifice.
(Author is a know writer, activist)
